Muscat – H E Dr Saud bin Hammoud bin Ahmed al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, has issued a ministerial decision (No 144/2023) classifying Parthenium plant as a destructive pest that requires immediate eradication.

The decision also establishes an agricultural quarantine zone in the affected areas.

Regarded as one of the most invasive weeds, Parthenium has infested certain regions of Dhofar’s plains and farmlands. This noxious plant releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of crops and pasture plants, while its allergenic properties pose a risk to both humans and livestock, often triggering pollen allergies.

According to the decision, Dhofar governorate will be designated as an agricultural quarantine area until the issue is resolved, with a specific directive issued to enforce this measure.

The decision explicitly prohibits the import, sale, cultivation, propagation, and transportation of Parthenium and its seeds, as well as any products or substances containing this destructive pest, including fertilisers used for its control.

Violations of the decision will result in administrative fines ranging from RO500 to RO1,000.

The decision, which was issued on June 7, took effect the following day after its publication in the Official Gazette.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Salim Mohammed Salim al Maashani, head of the Madinat al Haq team, lauded the move, considering it a positive step towards curbing the spread of this plant.

The team has already initiated various awareness campaigns aimed at eliminating this plant from Dhofar, specifically targeting areas like Mirbat, Taqa, Rakhyut, Dalkhout, and Salalah.

Maashani mentioned that the team’s efforts will continue throughout Dhofar from August to October to foster volunteerism and promote social and cultural initiatives within the community. The team’s primary objective is to provide relief and support to the agricultural sector in the governorate.

He urged all concerned parties to collaborate in preserving and protecting the environment.

Additionally, he called upon the authorities to conduct rigorous inspections of fodder and livestock before their entry into Oman.